Argentina Avoids Disaster, Beats Qatar to Reach Copa America Quarterfinals

Lautaro Martinez and Sergio Aguero scored to keep Argentina alive and set up a quarterfinal vs. Venezuela.

PORTO ALEGRE, Brazil (AP) – Lionel Messi avoided another disappointment with the national team as Argentina defeated Qatar 2-0 Sunday to escape elimination in the group stage of the Copa America.

Lautaro Martinez and Sergio Aguero scored a goal in each half as Argentina defeated guest team Qatar 2-0 to secure a spot in the quarterfinals of the South American competition.

An early goal for Argentina in this must-win match!

Lautaro Martínez capitalizes on a poor Qatar clearance! pic.twitter.com/Of4SlkZvct

— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) June 23, 2019

AGUERO!!!

He slots home to make it 2-0! pic.twitter.com/J9cNZALqfK

— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) June 23, 2019

Argentina finished second in Group A behind Colombia, which did Argentina a huge favor by beating Paraguay 1-0 in the other group match on Sunday.

Argentina will face Venezuela in the quarterfinals.